Andoni Iraola reacts to Richard Hughes exit and gives exciting assessment of Liverpool future

Andoni Iraola has hailed Richard Hughes after the Scot was named as Liverpool’s new sporting director earlier this week.

Currently first team technical director at AFC Bournemouth, Hughes will finish the season with the Cherries before officially taking up his new position on June 1.

The 44-year-old played a decisive role in appointing Iraola as Bournemouth manager last summer, luring the Spaniard to the Vitality Stadium from a successful stint with Rayo Vallecano.

Wataru Endo makes unexpected return to Liverpool due to 'unavoidable circumstances' in North Korea

What Bukayo Saka has just done for Arsenal proves Gary Neville right about Liverpool

And Iraola has backed Hughes to be a success at Anfield as he paid tribute to his departing colleague.

“I’ve always said it, he was maybe the main reason, or definitely a big, important part of the decision to come here,” the Spaniard said. “He has been really helpful with me personally, with all the staff.

“I think he is very good at his job. He has set everything here - the scouting department, the management of the players individually when they come here. There is an adaptation process where he is really helpful with the players and me as a coach.

“I am really happy for him, because I suppose it is a very good chance for him. I obviously wish him all the best. I am sure he will also be doing a very good job there at Liverpool.”

He continued: “You never know (if he can replicate his success at Liverpool). It is probably a big change for him.

“But I think he has done really, really well here at Bournemouth. I hope he can continue doing the same things he is doing here, at Liverpool.

“He has more relationships in places he has been living or working or has more contacts. But